§ Mr. HarveyTo ask the Secretary of State for Education and Employment what plans he has to abolish partial selection in maintained schools. [29984]
§ Mr. ByersOur plans are clearly set out in Clauses 90–94 of the School Standards and Framework Bill. New partial selection by ability, other than for the purposes of fair banding to ensure a fully comprehensive intake, will be ruled out. The adjudicator will be able to end existing partial selection by ability where another admission authority in the area objects to its retention. Schools with a specialism will continue to be able to give priority, in filling up to 10 per cent. of their places, to children who demonstrate the relevant aptitude. The adjudicator will be able to resolve disputes between admission authorities over existing or proposed specialist places.